The Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) scanner used by security forces allows the entry controller to see the card holder’s picture and information in detail. Starting Jun 1, card holders will no longer be required to go to the Sheppard Air Force Base visitor’s center to register their cards in the DBIDS system. (U.S. Air Force photo/Frank H. Carter)

5/30/2012 - SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Starting Jun 1, people needing to register their identification card into the Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) system will no longer need to go to the Visitors Center. Information will be entered into the system the first time the gate guard scans your card.

DBIDS is an identification card scanning system and has been in use by security forces since 2009. The DBIDS scanner scans an ID card bar code and automatically verifies the person with the card is authorized entry onto military installations. The scanner shows the gate guard a person's identity and picture.

"The old ID verification system in the U.S. was antiquated," said Tech. Sgt Jason Bergeron, NCOIC of the 82nd Security Forces Squadron pass and registration section. "The DBIDS scanner will help stop the use of fraudulent ID cards."

The DBIDS system has been in use in Europe for many years. More than 56,000 people have been caught trying to enter military installations using fake or forged ID cards. Because of the success of DBIDS in Europe, the military came up with a system to be used stateside.

When applying for a new ID card, the card is registered into the DBIDS system along with your fingerprints and picture. The new upgrade will make the new system more convenient for users to register their common access card (CAC) Card or ID cards into the DBIDS system.

"We ask people to be patient when we first get the new system," Bergeron said. "The first time we scan your card it will take a few seconds to search the data base for your information and put it into the DBIDS system. Once your information is in the system there won't be a delay."

To date, there hasn't been anyone caught with a fraudulent ID card at Sheppard with the DBIDS system. With the system, security forces members will have the ability to add comments to an ID card and can even mark a card for restricted base access.